Conventional Horizontal Lathes

KNUTH conventional lathes deliver reliable performance and precise machining results in shops and industrial facilities worldwide. The range covers every requirement level: from light training models through powerful universal lathes to servo-conventional and heavy-duty machines built for demanding turning and threading applications. Servo-conventional lathes combine hands-on manual operation with integrated electronics that provide CNC-comparable positioning accuracy without the need for a cont...

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KNUTH conventional lathes deliver reliable performance and precise machining results in shops and industrial facilities worldwide. The range covers every requirement level: from light training models ...

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For those who know their craft.

Displaying 1 to 13 of 13 machines
Basic Plus - Best-selling entry-level lathe with extended list of standard accessories, also ideal for training

METAL LATHE

Basic Plus

Best-selling entry-level lathe with extended list of standard accessories, also ideal for training

Turning diameter over bed: 12 in
Center width: 31,89 in
Basic 170 Super - Solid precision bench lathe with large center width

METAL LATHE

Basic 170 Super

Solid precision bench lathe with large center width

Turning diameter over bed: 13 in
Center width: 39,37 in
Basic 180 Super - Heavy mechanic's lathe with extensive accessories, extra wide bed and high cutting performance

METAL LATHE

Basic 180 Super

Heavy mechanic's lathe with extensive accessories, extra wide bed and high cutting performance

Turning diameter over bed: 14 in
Center width: 39,37 in
Basic 180 V - With extra wide bed, infinitely variable spindle speed and constant cutting speed

METAL LATHE

Basic 180 V

With extra wide bed, infinitely variable spindle speed and constant cutting speed

Turning diameter over bed: 14 in
Center width: 39,37 in
V-Turn - Best selling machine class featuring constant cutting speed and extensive package of accessories
2 models

ENGINE LATHE

V-Turn Series

Best selling machine class featuring constant cutting speed and extensive package of accessories

Turning diameter over bed: 15 in
Center width: 39,37 in - 59,06 in
V-Turn 410 PRO - Top model of the V-Turn series with infinitely variable spindle speed and constant cutting speed, as well as rapid traverse and modern ergonomic design

ENGINE LATHE

V-Turn 410 PRO

Top model of the V-Turn series with infinitely variable spindle speed and constant cutting speed, as well as rapid traverse and modern ergonomic design

Turning diameter over bed: 15 in
Center width: 39,37 in
Turnado - Proven classic with extensive standard equipment and powerful motor
5 models

ENGINE LATHE

Turnado Series

Proven classic with extensive standard equipment and powerful motor

Workpiece length (max.): 39 in - 79 in
Turning-Ø over bed: 18 in - 22 in
Turnado PRO - Top model of the Turnado series with infinitely variable spindle speed and constant cutting speed, as well as rapid traverse and modern ergonomic design
3 models

ENGINE LATHE

Turnado PRO Series

Top model of the Turnado series with infinitely variable spindle speed and constant cutting speed, as well as rapid traverse and modern ergonomic design

Center width: 39,37 in - 59,06 in
Turning-Ø over bed: 18 in - 22 in
Turnado V - Our classic with powerful, infinitely variable drive, constant cutting speed in proven heavy-duty design for long-lasting precision and reliability
5 models

ENGINE LATHE

Turnado V Series

Our classic with powerful, infinitely variable drive, constant cutting speed in proven heavy-duty design for long-lasting precision and reliability

Workpiece length (max.): 39 in - 79 in
Turning-Ø over bed: 18 in - 22 in
Sinus - D - Classic design with extensive standard equipment, including 3 axis read out
6 models

ENGINE LATHE

Sinus - D Series

Classic design with extensive standard equipment, including 3 axis read out

Turning diameter over bed: 26 in - 31 in
Workpiece length (max.): 59 in - 118 in
DL S - Designed for large workpieces, with powerful motor and with rapid feed on X and Z axes
4 models

HEAVY-DUTY LATHE

DL S Series

Designed for large workpieces, with powerful motor and with rapid feed on X and Z axes

Turning diameter over bed: 39 in
Workpiece length (max.): 59 in - 197 in
VDM S - With movable crossbeam, infinitely variable servo feed and additional lateral support for very large turning diameters
5 models

CONVENTIONAL VERTICAL LATHE

VDM S Series

With movable crossbeam, infinitely variable servo feed and additional lateral support for very large turning diameters

Machining height (max.): 31 in - 59 in
Rotating diameter (max.): 31 in - 102 in
DL E Heavy - Conventional high-performance lathe for work requiring large turning diameters and long center distances
7 models

HEAVY-DUTY LATHE

DL E Heavy Series

Conventional high-performance lathe for work requiring large turning diameters and long center distances

Turning diameter over bed: 49 in - 63 in
Workpiece length (max.): 59 in - 315 in

FAQ's

A conventional lathe is a manually operated machine tool used for machining rotationally symmetrical workpieces such as shafts, axles or threaded components. The operator controls all machine movements directly via handwheels, levers and switches. The workpiece is clamped in the chuck while a cutting tool removes material. Conventional lathes are easy to operate, versatile and ideal for one-off parts, repairs or small batch production.

Conventional turning is the traditional method of lathe machining performed on a conventional lathe. All machining steps – including tool feed, speed adjustment and thread cutting – are controlled manually by the operator. This method offers maximum flexibility but requires a certain level of practical skill. It is commonly used wherever speed, adaptability and direct operator influence over the process are required.

Conventional lathes are indispensable in metalworking operations, engineering workshops, repair shops, training facilities and single part and batch production environments. They are also regularly used in agricultural machinery maintenance, plant engineering and industrial maintenance. Wherever rapid response, straightforward operation and cost-efficiency are required, conventional lathes offer decisive advantages over CNC alternatives.

The key difference lies in the control system. A conventional lathe requires the operator to control all movements manually. A CNC lathe executes machining steps automatically according to a programmed sequence. Conventional machines are more affordable to purchase, simpler to operate and ideal for one-off parts or short-run jobs. CNC machines offer greater efficiency in series production. For workshops handling varied one-off orders, the conventional lathe is often the more economical choice.

Conventional lathes are suitable for a wide range of materials, including structural steel, stainless steel, aluminium, brass, copper, grey cast iron and various plastics. With the right tooling and adjusted cutting parameters, harder alloys can also be machined. KNUTH lathes are equipped with powerful motors and rigid machine beds that deliver precise results even under high loads.

The distance between centers is the maximum length of a workpiece that can be machined between the chuck and the tailstock center. A greater distance between centers allows longer workpieces such as shafts or axles to be machined. When selecting a lathe, the distance between centers should match the typical workpiece lengths in your operation.

The center height is the distance from the spindle axis to the machine bed surface, which equals half the maximum swing diameter over the bed. A greater center height allows workpieces with larger diameters to be machined. For operations that regularly machine large or heavy workpieces, an appropriate center height is a key selection criterion.

Regular maintenance extends the machine's service life and ensures machining quality. Daily care includes cleaning, lubricating the slideways and a visual inspection of components. A more thorough inspection of the gearbox, spindle bearings and lubrication points is recommended every six to twelve months. KNUTH recommends following the maintenance intervals in the supplied operating manual and involving KNUTH customer service when required.

KNUTH lathes comply with applicable European Machinery Directives and are CE-certified. Safety features include, depending on the model, automatic handwheel disengagement, guards for lead screws and feed shafts, emergency stop systems and various braking functions. KNUTH integrates state-of-the-art protective measures into every new development.

The key factors are the typical workpiece dimensions (distance between centres, centre height), the materials to be machined and the scope of use. For occasional repairs, a compact machine with a shorter distance between centers is sufficient. For regular machining of long shafts or large diameters, larger models are required. KNUTH experts are available to advise you on the right selection. Contact us – we will help you find the most cost-effective solution for your requirements.

The Conventional Lathe: Flexible, Reliable and Indispensable

In metalworking, conventional lathes are among the most versatile and widely used machine tools. They provide a reliable solution for a wide range of applications and are particularly popular for one-off parts, repairs and small batch production. Despite the growing prevalence of CNC technology, conventional lathes retain their firm place in workshops and industrial operations thanks to their straightforward operation, flexibility and cost-effectiveness.

Components of a Conventional Lathe

A typical conventional lathe consists of the following main components:

  1. Machine bed: The stable base of the lathe on which all other components are mounted.
  2. Headstock: Holds the workpiece and provides the rotational motion.
  3. Tailstock: Supports the workpiece for longer components and contains the quill, in which additional tools such as drills, collets or centers can be mounted.
  4. Carriage: Carries the cutting tool and enables precise movement along the axes.
  5. Handwheels and control levers: Used for manual control of the machine.
  6. Gearbox: Regulates spindle speed and feed rate according to the machining requirements.
  7. Steady rest and follow rest: Provides additional support for long workpieces, preventing deflection during machining.
  8. Digital readout (DRO): Shows the exact position of the turning tool relative to the workpiece datum on a digital display.

Advantages of Conventional Lathes

Conventional lathes offer a range of advantages that make them an indispensable machine in many workshops:

  1. Simple operation: No programming knowledge required – conventional lathes can be operated quickly and intuitively.
  2. Flexibility & versatility: Ideal for one-off parts, repairs and small series where rapid adjustments are required.
  3. Cost-efficiency: Lower acquisition and maintenance costs than CNC machines, particularly for smaller operations.
  4. Robustness: Conventional lathes are built for a long service life and operate reliably even under demanding conditions.
  5. Fast set-up: Without complex programming, workpieces can be clamped and machined quickly.

Conventional vs. CNC Lathes

While CNC lathes are indispensable for series production thanks to their automation and precision, conventional lathes offer clear advantages in specific scenarios. They are ideal for smaller jobs, repairs and situations where rapid adaptation is required. Since no programming is needed, they are often the more efficient choice for short-run machining or single part and batch production.

What to Consider When Buying a Conventional Lathe

When purchasing a conventional lathe, consider the following points to find the right machine for your requirements:

Safety Standards You Can Rely On

Conventional lathes should only be operated by trained personnel. As a machine manufacturer, KNUTH places great importance on minimizing risks and integrates numerous safety features into its lathes. Depending on the model, these include automatic handwheel disengagement, guards for lead screws and feed shafts, and various braking systems.

Buy a Conventional Lathe from KNUTH

Our experts at KNUTH are happy to advise you in selecting the right machine for your requirements. With a broad range, flexible configurations and first-class service, we are your reliable partner for conventional lathes.

Need help finding a machine?

We will gladly assist you in making the right decision to achieve your business goals

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